WikiCatch
Pigfish

Pigfish

Orthopristis chrysoptera

Family
Haemulidae
Max Length
46 cm
Max Weight
1.3 kg
IUCN Status
LC
Water Type
saltwater, mixed
Fishing Spots
71

Overview

Orthopristis chrysoptera, the pigfish, hogfish, piggy perch, redmouth grunt or sailor's choice, is a species of marine ray-finned fish, a grunt belonging to the family Haemulidae. It is found in the western Atlantic Ocean. This name derives from the grunting or chattering noise these fish make by rubbing their pharyngeal teeth together.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Shrimp

    A readily available and highly effective bait.

  • Squid

    Cut squid works well on a bottom rig.

  • Bloodworms

    Excellent for attracting a variety of fish.

  • Clams

    Chumming with crushed clams can draw them in.

  • Sand Fleas

    Effective when fishing near sandy shorelines.

Artificial Lures

  • Berkley Gulp! Alive! ShrimpSoft Plastic

    Scented and mimics natural prey.

    Buy
  • DOA ShrimpSoft Plastic

    Can be rigged on a jighead.

    Buy
  • SpoonSpoon

    Flashy and good for attracting attention.

    Buy
  • Got-cha! GrubSoft Plastic

    Effective grub rigged on jighead.

    Buy
  • Mr. Wiffelure OriginalJig

    Small profile jig works well.

    Buy

Techniques

Use a light wire hook with live bait to avoid gut hooking, and fish near structure like docks or reefs. Pigfish tend to be bottom feeders.

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Where to Find Pigfish

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Pigfish?+

Popular baits for Pigfish include Shrimp, Squid, Bloodworms, Clams, Sand Fleas. Tip: Use a light wire hook with live bait to avoid gut hooking, and fish near structure like docks or reefs. Pigfish tend to be bottom feeders.

Where can I catch Pigfish?+

Pigfish can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include South Carolina, United States; Florida, United States; North Carolina, United States. WikiCatch lists 71 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Pigfish get?+

Pigfish (Orthopristis chrysoptera) can reach up to 46.00000083446503 cm in length and 1.25 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.

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